FLY FROM KOCHI TO MUNNAR IN JUST 30 MINUTES: SEAPLANE TOURISM MARKS A NEW ERA IN KERALA!
Kerala inked a new chapter in tourism today with the successful trial run of its first seaplane, “De Havilland Canada”. Kerala’s first Seaplane took off from Bolgatty Marina in Kochi and landed smoothly at the picturesque Mattupetty Dam in Munnar, Idukki.
It is designed to usher in a revolution in inland transport and give tourism in the state a never-before push, as part of the pioneering endeavour supported by the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme. This seaplane service offers vistas of breathtaking aerial views of the backwaters, verdant mountains, and sprawling tea plantations of the state for the traveller who seeks to go about Kerala in a unique and hassle-free manner.
Tourism Minister Riyas Flags off Historic Trial Flight
This trial flight was flagged off by Kerala Tourism Minister P. A. Mohammed Riyas, who termed the event a “historic moment” that unfurls an exciting world of visual experiences. He said the new service would prove vital to rejuvenating the tourism sector in Kerala. Minister Riyas also announced the plans for expanding the seaplane project to other places in the state.
Other dignitaries present at the trial flight included Industries Minister P. Rajeev and Education Minister V. Sivankutty. When the plane finally landed safely at Mattupetty Dam around 11 am, it was given a warm welcome by Minister Roshy Augustine (Minister for Water Resources) along with other officials.
Fast, Efficient Travel: Seaplane Completes Journey in Half an Hour
It took only 30 minutes to travel from Kochi to Munnar by seaplane – a stark contrast to the five-hour road journey usually required for this stretch. This is fast and efficient transportation that gives tourists an alternative to cramming onto long, winding roads but also gives them an unforgettable aerial experience of Kerala’s natural beauty.
Versatile 17-seater Seaplane: Ideal for Tourism and Emergency Services
Capable of taking off and landing from both water and land, this 17-seater De Havilland Canada seaplane requires only an 800-meter-long gravel runway or water bodies at least two meters deep for its take-off or landing purposes. Apart from tourism, the seaplane will be able to serve in various other fields such as VIP transport, medical services, and emergency operations.
Connecting Kerala’s Waterways: UDAN Scheme and Future Plans
Part of the Regional Connectivity Scheme of the Union Government, the Kerala seaplane project proposes connectivity of the vast water bodies in Kerala with major tourist destinations. The service will cut down on travel time considerably for visitors and reach far-flung areas. The first phase of the project will operate from bases at Cochin Nedumbassery Airport and Bolgatty Palace.
Upcoming Routes and Tour Packages
Soon, seaplane routes over Kerala will be auctioned off to tour operators who will sell it along with travel packages. Additionally, the service will adopt a Maldives-style model, connecting key tourist spots like Kochi, Munnar, Wayanad, Alleppey, Kovalam, and many more.
Seaplane Service to Launch within Six Months
If the trial run proves successful, the seaplane service is anticipated to begin operations for tourists within the next six months. This innovative addition to Kerala’s tourism offerings is expected to become a game-changer, providing a faster and more immersive way to experience the state’s stunning landscapes.
A Game-Changer for Kerala’s Tourism
The launch of the seaplane service is expected to give tourism in Kerala a whole new meaning, as it would offer visitors a unique and efficient way to explore the state’s natural beauty. This initiative will not only enhance Kerala’s appeal as a tourist destination but also serve as a model for sustainable, accessible transport solutions in the future.